Colessas propose marina expansion and public access park in Freeport

In a recent meeting of the Walton County Board of County Commissioners, community members and officials gathered to discuss a proposed waterfront park project that aims to enhance public access to the bay and improve recreational facilities for local neighborhoods. Chris Colessa, a resident and business owner, presented a vision for transforming a marina and restaurant located off Bay Loop Road into a vibrant community hub, complete with a fishing pier, playground, and expanded dining options.

Colessa emphasized the need for safe public access to the water, particularly for families and children in nearby neighborhoods like Marina Village and Hammock Bay. He highlighted the absence of convenient public access points for fishing and boating, which has led to safety concerns as children navigate busy roads to reach the bay. His proposal includes revamping the existing boat ramp and creating additional parking to accommodate visitors.

However, the discussion revealed complexities surrounding the project. County officials noted that the land in question is subject to regulations from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Army Corps of Engineers, particularly concerning wetlands. The county's engineer pointed out that significant portions of the proposed access area are classified as wetlands, which could complicate development efforts.

Commissioners expressed caution about combining private interests with public land, emphasizing the need to prioritize community benefits without setting a precedent for private use of public resources. The board agreed that further research and planning are necessary before moving forward, particularly regarding the wetlands and the overall conceptual design of the park.

In addition to the waterfront project, the meeting also featured a quarterly update from the Economic Development Alliance, which reported on new business investments and job creation efforts in Walton County. The alliance highlighted the appointment of new leadership and ongoing projects aimed at fostering economic growth in the region.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the vision for a waterfront park holds promise for enhancing community recreation, the path forward will require careful navigation of regulatory hurdles and community interests. The board's commitment to thorough planning reflects a desire to ensure that any developments serve the broader needs of Walton County residents.